On Thursday, Tesla CEO Elon Musk revealed a groundbreaking “flying” car that uses rocket-like thrusters to take off and can accelerate to 60 mph in under a second.
The high-profile tech mogul showcased this next-generation electric vehicle, named the “Tesla Roadster,” during an impressive demonstration at a SpaceX facility in McGregor, Texas.
“We need witnesses to prove that this isn’t just AI or some simulation,” Musk, who is 55, addressed the audience.
“You will be able to say you saw it with your own eyes, because what you’re about to see is hard to believe,” he added.
“This is the result of an incredible collaboration between the finest car company and the top rocket firm in the world. It’s the outcome of tireless efforts from both Tesla and SpaceX engineers, who have joined forces to create something straight out of a movie.”
The car later drove up a steep, curved ramp and seemingly defied gravity, suspending itself upside down by utilizing a unique suction system.
Then, with an impressive launch, it flipped midair and used air jets to softly land back on the ground.
“Well, that worked,” Musk joked after the thrilling demonstration went smoothly without any mishaps.
Musk, standing next to Tesla’s Vice President of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, and Chief Designer, Franz von Holzhausen, admitted he thought the Roadster concept was “crazy” when he initially proposed it, jesting that the vehicle outshines any James Bond car.
“The car features a suction system underneath that can generate up to 2Gs — that’s double the force of gravity — allowing it to stay inverted,” Moravy explained.
“We even incorporated some technology from SpaceX for the rest of the features. This vehicle really sucks; it could even reverse the chrome off a trailer hitch. It’s powerful enough to suck a tennis ball through a hose,” he continued.
This futuristic vehicle, which doesn’t have a human driver because Musk wanted to avoid any risks, landed using its rocket-inspired thrusters.
The Roadster, equipped with a steer-by-wire system, also executed a kickflip demonstration.
It then sped toward a truck and other Tesla models, soared to an altitude of about 21 feet, twisted in the air, and landed smoothly.
The car can reach speeds up to 230 mph and has a battery range of at least 300 miles.
They performed a zero-to-60 mph test, clocking in an impressive 0.81 seconds.
Though Musk hinted that the car might surpass its suggested 230 mph top speed.
“I think we might need to reach halfway to the speed of sound — Mach 0.5,” he remarked, eliciting laughter from Franz von Holzhausen and Moravy.
Attendees were left astonished by what they witnessed, with one noting, “Elon Musk just made Turbo Boost a reality,” referencing the memorable scene from the 1980s show “Knight Rider.”
“Many guys my age have been waiting for something like this our whole lives.”
Musk later chimed in on social media, “Turns out the future does have flying cars,” savoring the moment.
Previously, Musk had hinted at the possibility of flying cars. During an appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast last October, he remarked that the upcoming demonstration would be “unforgettable” and believed it could be the most memorable product unveiling ever.
Production is set to begin in 2028, with a performance version requiring a $50,000 deposit, while a “Thrust” model equipped with acceleration thrusters will require a $250,000 deposit.
Musk stated the car will be “on the roads” soon, but later seemed to temper that enthusiasm.
“I’m not entirely sure it will be legal everywhere,” he admitted. “But, such a car will exist for someone to own.”
“It really depends on your street, but it should be a viable option,” he replied when questioned about its legality.
Tesla’s new Roadster arrives 18 years after the original Roadster, which was Tesla’s first electric vehicle. The company is now pivoting towards developments in AI-centered self-driving technology and robotics.
Tesla has also halted sales of its Model S and X vehicles. The company is expected to release its Q3 2026 financial results on October 21.
